Central Jersey residents can get a head start on a healthier New Year, with a series of FREE workshops called "Take Control of Your Health":

"Take Control of Your Health" is an evidence-based Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) offered in your area.

The workshops are a self-management education intervention for adults with chronic health conditions like arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, lung disease etc. People with more than one chronic condition may find the program especially helpful.

The target audience includes those with chronic diseases and their caregivers.

CDSMP is a series of weekly 2.5 hour long classes for 6 weeks. Participants learn techniques for coping with the physical and psychological effects of chronic disease, and strategies for reducing symptoms and disability.

Among the proven benefits, participants report less pain, fatigue, and depression; more energy; better communication with their physicians; better overall health; and increased confidence that they can manage their health.

Thanks to funding from the National Association of County & City Health Officials, and from the New Jersey Department of Human services, several Local Health Departments have come together to offer this program. Montgomery Township Health Department is proud to be the lead agency for this effort.

Classes are FREE and scheduled throughout Central New Jersey. Call now to reserve your seat at an upcoming series:

Take Control of Your Health Class Schedule

(6 Mondays) January 12- February 16

PEAC Health & Fitness in Ewing

6:00pm - 8:30pm

(6 Weds) January 14 - February 18

Princeton Health Department

9:30am - 12:00pm

(6 Fridays) February 6- March 13

Montgomery Township

11:00am - 1:30pm

(6 Thursdays) February 19 - March 26

Branchburg Township

6:00pm - 8:30pm

Additional Information:

The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program was created by Stanford University. The program focuses on challenges that are common to individuals living with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, cancer, chronic pain, anxiety, etc. The target audience includes those with chronic diseases and their caregivers. The goal of this program is to empower attendees with the skills they need to effectively and optimally manage their conditions.

The workshops are facilitated by two trained leaders. Topics covered include:

- fitness and exercise

- managing symptoms, pain and fatigue

- nutrition

- managing medications and treatment decisions

- creating action plans

- making daily tasks easier

Studies show that those who take the program demonstrate significant improvement in overall health and quality of life.

To learn more about this FREE workshop or to register please contact Devangi Patel at 908-533-9331 (Health Educator). Class size is limited. No residency restrictions. Open to all residents of New Jersey.

Low-Cost Radon Test Kits Available in January

The Montgomery Township Health Department is working with the Greater Somerset Public Health Partnership (GSPHP) to recognize January as Radon Awareness Month.

Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas that occurs naturally in soil. It is released from the natural decay of the elements uranium, thorium and radium, and occurs in higher concentrations in certain areas of the state, including Somerset County.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Radon is associated with 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States.

"In an effort to reduce the risk of exposure to radon gas, residents are urged to test their homes," said Stephanie Carey, Health Officer of Montgomery Township. "It's not uncommon to find that homes on the same block will have different test results. Even if your neighbor's home is not affected by radon gas, it does not mean that your home is in an acceptable range."

Starting on January 2nd to enable residents to test their homes, one radon kit per household will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for $10 at the Montgomery Township Health Department. Residents may pick up radon kits at the Montgomery Township Health Department, 2261 Route 206, Belle Mead while supplies last.

Montgomery residents seeking more information on radon testing or mitigation should contact the Montgomery Health Department at (908) 359-8211.

MEMS' Blood Drive Dates for 2015

Montgomery Emergency Medical Services wishes to thank everyone who came out to support our blood drives this year. This year completes the third year we have been running blood drives at Montgomery EMS. Since we started 225 pints of blood have been donated.

In 2015 we plan to continue our blood drives. The planned dates are 3/14, 6/6, 8/1, and 11/14. We hope you can join us. Remember, every three minutes someone needs blood and the 225 pints donated since we started is enough blood to potentially have saved 675 lives!

Montgomery EMS is not affiliated with any hospital nor are we a municipal entity. We are 100% volunteer, 100% donation based and do not charge for our services. Donations are 100% tax deductible.

We rely solely on our volunteers and the donations we receive. If you wish to volunteer or to donate to Montgomery EMS, visit us at our website: http://www.mems47.org or find us on Facebook. We are "Neighbors helping Neighbors.

From everyone at Montgomery EMS, best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year!

Plan for your pets like you would plan for your family. Make sure to have a stockpile of food and water available. Have a cat carrier or dog crate and a heavy leash available to contain your animals. Make sure your pet has a collar with ID on it.

If possible keep a corded (not portable) landline available, which can work when power is out. Charge cell phones, only use minimally if electric goes out to keep battery up. Text messages can sometimes get through when calls do not.

We recommend free subscription to Somerset County's GovDelivery system for emergency and roads announcements. Go to www.co.somerset.nj.us and look for "Email Subscriptions" at bottom of their homepage.

DURING THE STORM Police remind residents of the following safety precautions:

1. Stay Away from Downed Trees or Power Lines. Wires not energized now may be 'hot' in a few minutes as power may be sporadic.

2. Do Not Drive Unless Essential. Remaining at home during the storm is for your safety and will aid our efforts tremendously. Road hazards are common & many destinations may be without power and closed, anyway. Saturated conditions may cause trees to fall and take down live power lines and flood waters continue to rise, even after a storm passes. Roads may be impassable and traffic lights are out.

3. ROAD CLOSURES will be posted on the homepage of the township website at

www.montgomery.nj.usand by ebulletin and tweet but please realize that conditions can change rapidly. If you subscribe at Twitter by messaging 'InMontgomeryNJ' to 40404 from your cell phone, you should still receive info from us as text messages if power/internet is out in your home.

4. If you absolutely must drive, do not cross any open water with your vehicle, even if it appears shallow. Turn around, don't drown. Even what may seem a small amount of water can cause your car to lose traction and potentially drift off the road.

5. Do not assume roads are passable if not yet barricaded.

6. Those who use generators should carefully follow manufacturer's instructions. To avoid carbon monoxide issues, never use a generator inside, even in a garage. Be careful with use of candles, do not leave unattended.

7. If you are without power, do not call the municipal building to determine when power may be restored. Calls should be made directly to your utility provider. Please see below important info from PSE&G.

Excerpt from PSE&G Press Release of 8/26/11 regarding Irene:

To report downed wires or power outages, customers should call PSE&G's Customer Service line at 1-800-436-PSEG. PSE&G uses an automated system to handle customer calls as efficiently as possible. Customers who get an automated response when calling PSE&G are encouraged to use it, as it is designed to route their calls to the right destination quickly. The system also provides the option to speak directly to a customer service representative. If you have specific information regarding damage to wires, transformers or poles, we ask that you speak with a representative to provide that information.

Customers with a handheld device, or who are at an alternate location with power, can also report power outages and view the status of their outage by logging in to My Account at pseg.com. General outage activity throughout our service territory is available online at www.pseg.com/outagecenter and updates are posted on www.pseg.com during severe weather.

In addition, if outages are widespread, the utility will activate its Twitter page to keep the public informed about our restoration progress. Sign up as a follower at http://twitter.com/psegoutageinfo to monitor restoration progress.

CUSTOMERS WITH LIFE-SUSTAINING EQUIPMENT

Individuals who rely on electricity to operate life-sustaining electronic equipment, such as a respirator or dialysis machine, should pre-register with PSE&G to receive priority attention in the event of an outage. To request the service, call PSE&G at 1-800-436-PSEG. They should also inform their rescue squads and fire departments of their needs, in case of emergency. Even though customers with life-sustaining equipment who have registered with PSE&G will receive priority attention during outages, they should also have emergency back-up equipment on hand, since immediate restoration cannot be guaranteed.

March 2, 2016 (Skillman, NJ) - Nassau Tennis Club’s 4th Annual President’s Day Weekend Community Tournament to benefit Montgomery First Responders was a huge success raising approximately $1,500. The Nassau Tennis Club matched all donations and presented $3,000 to the 4 organizations that keep our citizens, homes and businesses safe. “Every year this event grows bigger, allowing us to acknowledge the great work of our local heroes”, says Benton Camper, “and we are looking forward to even more community participation next year.”

Javier, a student at the Rock Brook School in Montgomery shares his biography with a new friend at the Senior Center in Montgomery Township. Previous to meeting for the first time, students and seniors wrote their biographies to share as they got to know each other. Rock Brook School, a school for children with communication and learning differences in the Skillman Section of Montgomery, provides a variety of community learning opportunities for its students. This first visit was the beginning of future activities together. Rock Brook School serves students 5 to 14 years old. Info: 908-431-9500/www.rock-brook.org

This year, the Centers for Disease Control recommends universal vaccination against influenza, for all people over 6 months of age. CDC expects ample vaccine supplies to be available for all people who want it. This year's flu shot includes both H1N1 and other Seasonal strains.

Montgomery Township's Seasonal Flu Vaccination Clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, October 20 at the Otto Kaufman Community Center on Skillman Road. Both morning and evening appointments will be available for people age 18 and up. Shots will be available by reservation. Walk-ins will be accommodated if extra vaccine is available.

The flu shot will be offered Free to Seniors with Medicare. The flu shot will cost $30 for adults without Medicare.

If you can't afford the flu shot, you may request a hardship fee waiver.

Pneumonia vaccine will also be available for at-risk people who have not had the shot in at least five years. Pneumonia shots are recommended all people over 65, and for younger adults that have asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or other disorders.

We do not offer vaccine for under age 18 at this clinic. If you do not have health insurance for your children, contact the Health Department for a referral to our Child Health Clinic.

Need a ride to the clinic? Let us know when you e-mail or call and you will be placed on the bus pickup list.

Montgomery Township's Annual blood drive will be held on Friday, September 10th from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the Otto Kaufman Community Center at 356 Skillman Road, Skillman. Appointments are available by calling the Township Health Department at (908) 359-8211 ext. 245 or emailing:

Walk-ins are always welcome. Every donor will receive a T-shirt. Donors are asked to bring a photo or signature I.D. and to eat within 4 hours of donating.

This Blood Drive is once again being held to honor the lives lost and forever changed on September 11, 2001 and to acknowledge local first responders - fire, police and emergency medical volunteers.

The drive is being conducted by the Montgomery Township Committee in cooperation with Montgomery Township High School and the Montgomery Township Health Department. Montgomery Township is working in cooperation with Community Blood Council of New Jersey in Ewing (www.GiveBloodNJ.org).

The extreme dry conditions along with the variable wind speed directions have made the State of New Jersey issue a red flag warning for fires. This means that NO opening burning is permitted whether you have a permit or not. This also includes outdoor fireplaces and fire pits. The windy dry weather could cause a fire to escape from its container and quickly get out of control.

OCTOBER 9 AND 10: WEEKEND JOURNEY THROUGH THE PAST. The Van Harlingen Historical Society is taking part in the Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission's Weekend Journey Through the Past. As part of this event, the historic Bedensville Schoolhouse, which is located behind the Orchard Hill Elementary School on Burnt Hill Road, will be open to the public on Saturday, October 9 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Sunday, October 10 from 12:00 to 5:00 pm. Visit the Weekend Journey Through the Past website for details: www.heritagetrail.org/SCHW.

OCTOBER 21: THE MONTGOMERY-HILLSBOROUGH POORFARM. This program will focus on the Montgomery-Hillsborough Poorfarm, which was in operation from 1825 until 1913. At this event, Henry Dale, Montgomery Upper Middle School history teacher and Trustee, will present the results of his research of local archives and records with a lecture and slide show. It will take place on Thursday, October 21st at 7:00 pm in the Mary Jacobs Library.

NOVEMBER 16: WASHINGTON IRVING AND THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW. In this event, produced by the American Historical Theatre, Neill Hartley will portray great American author Washington Irving, narrating The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. There will be a discussion of Irving's life and other literary work afterwards. This program will take place on November 16th at 7:00 pm in the Mary Jacobs Library.

This fall of 2015 will mark this 1st annual event being offered by a cooperation between the Montgomery Economic Development Commission (municipal committee) and the Montgomery Business Association (non-profit group) - connecting our individuals, families, schools, local businesses and non-profit organizations to celebrate our community.

We welcome all interested Montgomery businesses to participate. We also welcome school, sports and community groups to participate in FunFest by showcasing their talents on our community stage, incorporating creative and family-friendly activities (games, demonstrations, workshops, etc) at their booth or volunteering to make FunFest successful and a more dynamic event.

We look forward to your participation and working with you to create an event that our community looks forward to each year!

A wintry mix is anticipated, starting tonight and continuing into Wednesday.Icy conditions and power outages may occur in our area.¼ to ½ inch of ice accumulation is possible.

Heavy ice can bring down trees, power lines, etc. leaving areas without power for days.Homes and businesses could be without heat during power outages.Communications by internet, TV, phone, etc. would be compromised or unavailable.

Residents are strongly advised to PREPARE IN ADVANCE for the possibility of a power outage that could be lengthy. It is important that residents take precautions and exercise good judgment in response to conditions.

Some suggested preparations for residents:

1. Think of a number of friends and family who are not far but may be out of the outage area and who might be able to accommodate you temporarily.Think of how you would secure your home if you leave.

2. Check in with your neighbors, particularly the elderly, to see if they are home and may need help in event of power outage.

During an interruption of electrical service, Township phones should not be called in order to find out when power will be restored.We are not the source of this info and we need to keep our phone lines open for emergency calls.Restoring power and informing customers is the responsibility of the local power utility - PSE&G.

Here is a helpful page of the PSE&G website, which gives map-based location-specific information, as well as the PSE&G Emergency Call Line.

This past winter has been one of the most challenging in years for our road crews. After record winter snowstorms, and hundreds of man-hours to salt and clear, we are now in the process of doing what it takes to bring township roads back to where they need to be. The freezing and thawing we saw all winter has left us with a lot of potholes and we are aggressively working to patch them temporarily until the weather is warm enough for more permanent repairs. We are also communicating with state and county officials about needed work on State Hwy. 206, Rt. 601, Rt. 518 and other county roads. Below is an update on the current plans for repairs and maintenance:

The following road projects and road repairs are scheduled to occur in 2011.All work is pending final 2011 municipal budget approval.

Roadway Reconstruction Project on Cherry Valley Road:

Montgomery Township will undertake a major reconstruction project this year on Cherry Valley Road, from approximately the Woodsedge neighborhood entrance (Rutgers Lane) to Rt. 206.This project includes drainage, curbing and sidewalk. It is a joint project with Princeton and is partially funded with NJDOT local aid grant money. The project will go out to bid this spring.

Pavement Repair Projects:

Montgomery is undertaking pavement repair projects for 2011 on the following roads: Cherry Hill Road, Cherry Valley Road (the portion not being reconstructed), Hollow Road, Burnt Hill Road, Bridge Point Road, Green Avenue, and additional repairs throughout various housing development roads.

Chip Seal Projects:

Chip seal is a process by which an oil spray and small stone mix is placed and compacted and becomes an asphalt-like surface over time with further compaction from vehicular traffic.Chip-sealing resurfaces a road and is a cost-effective fix that lasts for approximately five years.

Department of Public Works crews have been busy taking care of potholes throughout the Township this spring.Residents may call our Pothole hotline # 908-874-8947 to report any maintenance issues on Township maintained public roads.

Rt. 206 is maintained by the New Jersey Department of Transportation. NJDOT oversees the current reconstruction project for the CSX Railroad Bridge overpass.Somerset County is responsible for maintenance of County roads in town, including Dutchtown-Harlingen Rd. (Rt. 604), Belle Mead-Blawenburg Rd aka The Great Rd. (Rt. 601), Georgetown-Franklin Turnpike (Rt. 518), River Rd. (Rt. 533), and Kingston-River Rd. (Rt. 605).

If you have business to conduct at Montgomery Twp. municipal offices, please note that due to the holiday our offices in the municipal building at 2261 Rt. 206, Belle Mead, and Otto Kaufman Community Center, 356 Skillman Rd., Skillman will close at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 22 and will reopen for regular hours at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 27.

The Department of Public Works, 12 Harlingen Rd, Belle Mead will close at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 22 and reopen for regular hours 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 27th.

Kid Connection, 265 Burnt Hill Rd, in following the MTSD schedule, will have an early dismissal Friday. Please contact Kid Connection if you have any questions (908-359-2111).

Below we share about three upcoming January health initiatives - a children's flu shot clinic January 4th, the availability of radon test kits, and the Township's free rabies shot clinic for dogs and cats on January 21st.

Hope the upcoming new year has you thinking of new ways to take care of your health! As the holiday approaches, remember to designate a driver if you are going to any festivities where alcohol is being served. Stay alive, don't drink and drive!

If you have preschool age children in daycare, don't forget that the State's annual deadline for flu vaccination is December 31st. See info on our Jan. 4 clinic.

Please remember to have your home testing for radon periodically. Radon does not cause any immediate symptoms, such as asthma or respiratory problems. The risk of developing lung cancer is the only known health effect. Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas that occurs naturally in soil. It is produced by the natural breakdown of uranium and radium in rock formations, and occurs in higher concentrations in certain areas of the state, including Somerset County.According to County health department data, one out of every three homes in Somerset County tested during 2008 and 2009 exceeded the action level. of 4 picocuries per liter. Test kits are available here at the Health Dept. at a reduced rate for a limited time.

Starting January 3rd, Montgomery residents may purchase a reduced cost radon kit for $10.00 at the Montgomery Township Health Department, 2261 Route 206, Belle Mead. The kit may be paid for by check (made out to Montgomery Twp.) or by cash (exact change only). Health Department hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 - 4:30 p.m.

There is a limited supply of test kits, so it is recommended that residents call the Health Department to ensure kits are still available before coming in. The Health Department can be reached at (908)359-8211 ext. 227.

Reorganization Meeting January 5

The annual reorganization meeting of the Township Committee will be held Thurs., Jan. 5 at 7 p.m. in the Montgomery Twp. courtroom, 2261 Rt. 206, Belle Mead.

There are still power outages in town but they are decreasing. PSE&G has stated that this is the worst outage in their history and they are working as quickly as possible to restore power to their remaining impacted customers. Throughout their entire territory, electricity has been restored for 753,000 customers as of 8/31 but work continues to safely restore 33,000 customers (13,000 as a result of flooding). Estimated time of power restoration is not known by the Township.

For further info, call 1-800-436-PSEG.

SOMERSET COUNTY DECLARED A FEDERAL DISASTER AREA

On August 31, 2011, President Obama declared portions of New Jersey, including all of Somerset County, a federal disaster area. Residents and business owners who experienced damage as a result of Hurricane Irene can begin applying for assistance by registering online at http://www.disasterassistance.gov/ , by web-enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov or by calling (800) 621-FEMA (3362).

The Montgomery Township Economic Development Commission will hold its annual Fall Business Networking Forum on Oct. 25th at the newly opened Tusk Restaurant located at 1736 Route 206 South in Montgomery. The networking forum will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

"We are delighted to welcome Tusk as the newest member of our business community and grateful it has agreed to host our fall forum," said EDC Chairman Ernest Willson.

The forum is sponsored by The Provident Bank and will feature Mike Kerwin, President and CEO of the Somerset County Business Partnership (“SCBP”), a regional chamber of commerce whose focus is promoting the economic vitality of Somerset County.

Kerwin will discuss the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s recent grant to the SCBP. The grant will help the Partnership prepare a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Somerset County. Kerwin will address how the business community and municipal government will be able to participate in forming the strategy. The event should be of interest to business owners in Montgomery and the surrounding region and will provide ample opportunities for networking.

There is no charge for the event but a reply to be able to plan for attendee numbers is kindly requested. Refreshments will be served. To rsvp or for more information, contact the Montgomery Township EDC at edc@twp.montgomery.nj.us.

We are pleased to announce that we will once again work with ShopRite of Montgomery on a Turkey Donation program for Thanksgiving 2011.

You may sign up to donate your free ShopRite turkey during store hours through Sunday November 20, 2011. Visit the ShopRite Service Desk. You will need to present your ShopRite Price Plus Card at Customer Service. The earned free turkey points will be deducted from your account and a turkey will be donated to the Montgomery Township Food Pantry Program.

Important note: Please do not drop off turkeys at the Montgomery Township Food pantry. We cannot accept perishable items. We have arranged a special program working directly with ShopRite.

We schedule appointments for donation deliveries and client visits to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of our clients. We do offer an "open donation time" on Mondays between 8:30am and 9:30am and Mondays between 1:30pm and 4:30pm and we schedule donation appointments on other days and times. On Mondays we have a shopping cart in the vestibule of the Senior Center where donors can deliver non-expired, non-perishable food or non-food grocery items and sign in on our donation log. This ensures that donors and clients are not here at the same time.

The Montgomery community is incredibly generous and we appreciate the support. The Food Pantry and Montgomery families having difficulty making ends meet are very thankful to have such a caring community willing to help in so many ways.

The Montgomery Township Environmental Commission/Sustainable Montgomery is pleased to announce the seventh annual Earth Day Fair at the Montgomery High School on Route 601 in Skillman. It will be held Sunday April 22, 2012, 12-4 pm, indoors and outdoors, rain or shine. Registration to participate as an exhibitor, sponsor or volunteer is now open. The theme is: Every Day is Earth Day in Montgomery Township.

"The fair is Montgomery's biggest community wide environmental event each year. Come get involved! Fairgoers get giveaways and tips on living a healthier, greener lifestyle. And there's lots of music, food, and fun for all ages," said Environmental Commission Chairperson Mary Reece.

On-line Registration is now up for local businesses, civic organizations, municipal committees, school groups, scout troops and local residents who are interested in setting up public education display tables, speaking on topics of environmental interest, collecting items not currently collected by our county recycling program, selling food or providing activities for children. We are also looking for individuals or groups to sponsor this event.

Once again there will be free computer recycling available for all residents sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies as well as a bicycle collection that will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Trenton. In addition to several environmental displays, there will be live music, a clown, children activities, food, and much more. Back again this year will be a "Freecycle" event, where you can drop off items you no longer need, and find new items to take home, all for FREE! For more information on recycling, please visit the township website and click on Earth Day Fair link and select Recycling.

There is no admission charge to display or to attend this township-wide event. This event is entirely run by the Montgomery Township Environmental Commission/Sustainable Montgomery and their supporters, a team of volunteers.

The Montgomery Township Open Space Committee is excited to offer several guided walks on Montgomery’s Pathways in the coming months. Bring your family, a friend, or your dog and join us on one or more of these nature walks. Contact Lauren Wasilauski, Open Space Coordinator with any questions by calling (908) 359-8211 x343 or by email at lwasilauski@twp.montgomery.nj.us .

Montgomery Arboretum June 5 On the Montgomery Arboretum walk we will learn about the native trees of New Jersey. We will also find wildflowers, turtles, birds & butterflies. We’ll observe wet & dry ecosystems as we explore, primarily using the asphalt walkways that are suitable for strollers. The walk will begin at 2:00 PM starting from the large lower parking lot in Montgomery Park.

Cherry Brook Preserve June 12 This grassy and mostly flat ramble may have some wet spots, but many interesting and varied features make it worthwhile. The early part follows along a small stream where several Eagle Scout projects consisting of boardwalks and small bridges lead the way to a pretty secluded pond. From there, the pathway leads to an open field area where the Township, in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, has embarked upon an ambitious forest and wetland restoration project. Here you will see ecological restoration in progress. The walk will begin at 2:00 PM, departing from the parking lot just south and opposite of the Waldorf School on Cherry Hill Road (parking area is situated between Coppervail Court and Cherry Brook Drive). Overflow parking is available at Waldorf School.

Hobler Park June 18 (Father’s Day Special) Take Dad on this easy breezy grass pathway walk and learn the hidden mysteries of this quiet little park. Learn about the wetland restoration and volunteer tree plantings here; walk the bluebird trail; see emerging wildflower diversity; have a short course on invasive species control; and observe whichever may be present of the 7 species of hawks that frequent the site annually. The Kestrels may be fledging young hawks by then. Bring binoculars if you have them to better identify the hawks. The walk will begin at 2:00 PM and will depart from the gazebo.

The blistering heat is forecast to continue for the next few days. Temperatures and heat indexes will be in the upper 90's, possibly even reaching 100 degrees or higher. Children, older adults, people with disabilities and pets are most at risk during excessive temperatures. Please click on the links below for information about staying cool during a heat wave.

Montgomery Twp. municipal offices will close for business Tues. Jan 21st at 2:30 PM and will reopen on Wed. Jan 22nd at 10 AM, due to weather-related travel conditions. All meetings scheduled for Tues. evening, including Zoning Board of Adjustment and Licensed Appeals Board, are cancelled.

Please use caution if you must drive. Please see PSE&G info on storm readiness below. Please remember that parking on public streets is not allowed while streets are snow covered. Also, please remember not to shovel or blow snow into the street and please do not pile snow to the left of your driveway, where it may be plowed back into your driveway. The road crews are out now and will be working for the duration of the storm and beyond to clear the roads. Thank you to all residents for their cooperation.

WHO: All local residents are invited to this free event, brought to you by Montgomery Twp. Fire Stations 45 & 46 and Rocky Hill Station 53. All children to age 16 must be accompanied by adults.

WHY: Educate yourself and your family on how to stay safe and have fun at the same time!

*Bike helmets and lights courtesy of The Montgomery Twp. Env. Commission and a grant program from Sustainable Jersey.

Celebration of NJ's 350th Next Wed.

This year marks the 350th anniversary of the charter for the lands of "Nova Caesarea" - today known as the State of New Jersey. On Thursday, October 2nd, the Montgomery Township Committee passed a proclamation marking this notable anniversary and acknowledging the amazingly rich history of New Jersey since its establishment. Trustees of the local historical society, President Judy Peters and Jessie Havens, were present to accept the proclamation from the Township Committee.

Ms. Peters thanked the Township Committee and also announced that the Van Harlingen Historical Society is holding a grand celebration of the 350th anniversary on Wednesday, October 15th at 7:00 p.m. at the historic Harlingen Reformed Church, 34 Dutchtown-Harlingen Road at the corner of State Road 206.

New Jersey's first governor, William Livingston, as portrayed by historical actor Bob Gleason, will present, "Governor Livingston, I Presume" as part of this free program. Gleason brings wisdom, style, humor and historic fact to his role of our governor who served from 1776 to 1790.

The second part of the celebration will include the unveiling of portraits of the Rev. Johannes Martinus Van Harlingen, the beloved pastor for whom the Harlingen Church, the village and Van Harlingen Historical Society are named. The original of the portrait is in the collection of the Zimmerli Art Museum, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Van Harlingen was an early trustee of Queens College, later to be renamed Rutgers University, and was a contemporary of Governor Livingston.

The Society's portrait will be dedicated in memory of Kathy Martin, long time trustee and devoted member of the organization, and will hang in the VHHS headquarters, the 1752 Dirck Gulick House.

Montgomery Township Committeeman Ed Trzaska will be present to read the proclamation in honor of the 350th birthday of New Jersey.

For more information visit www.vanharlingen.org or call 908-874-4820. The program is free and open to the public and school age children are welcome. "Governor Livingston, I Presume" is funded by the Horizons Speakers Bureau, NJ Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Fall Festival Oct. 18th

New Addition - The Somerset County Sheriff's Office will have an unwanted medicine drop-box at the Fall Festival, for the public's convenience. Bring any prescription medicines in their original containers and labels. The name of the medicine should be visible. Remove any patient name, address or other personal information.

On Saturday October 18th Montgomery High School will be holding its annual Fall Festival. This event is a wonderful opportunity for school and

community to come together and enjoy a fun-filled day of games, activities and great food. The celebration will be held at Montgomery High School in the parking lot next to Board of Education Office from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. In the event of rain, the Fall Festival will be held in the Montgomery High School Commons.

The Recreation Department, which is co-sponsoring the event, will hold their annual Halloween Bash in conjunction with the festival. Children age 12 and under are invited to come in their Halloween costumes and participate in their own "Halloween Parade". In addition to the parade, the Recreation Department will have arts and crafts activities for the children.

Plan on bringing the whole family out to enjoy the festivities! For more info, call the Recreation Dept. at (609) 466-3023.

Montgomery Township has been ranked seventh in "The 50 Safest Cities in New Jersey". Montgomery is among four Somerset County towns making the top 20 in the 2015 list compiled by independent consumer comparison website Safewise. See the list at http://www.safewise.com/blog/safest-cities-new-jersey-2015/

"Our outstanding police force deserves recognition for their hard work and dedication to serving our community. As elected officials, it is gratifying to see that our emphasis on public safety is yielding excellent results!" said Mayor Christine Madrid.

Montgomery, Bernards, Hillsborough, and Warren are the Somerset County towns ranked in the top 20 safest New Jersey cities in the Safewise survey.

"Congratulations to Montgomery and our other towns on this safety ranking," said Somerset County Freeholder Director Mark Caliguire. "These local elected officials and police departments work very hard to maintain a safe environment for their citizens."

According to the Safewise website, the New Jersey rankings were generated in the following manner:

"To create our list, we identified communities with a population of more than 10,000 people in 2013 and reported complete crime data to the FBI. Then we reviewed the latest FBI Crime Report statistics, comparing the number of reported violent crimes (murder, robbery, rape, and aggravated assault) and property crimes (burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson) in each city. To compare small and large cities fairly, we calculated the chance of both types of crime happening out of 1,000 people."

Did you know that over 160,000 pounds of material were collected from approximately 2,650 consumers at 11 shredding events in Somerset County last year? These Operation Secure Shred events are held at convenient locations and open to the residents of Somerset County.

Please bring some form of identification while establishes your residency. All paper paper documents and card stock folders are acceptable. It is not necessary to remove staples or paperclips. Shredding can be done in front of you while you wait and all containers can be returned.

May 18th the Shredding Truck will be in Montgomery at the firehouse at Belle Mead-Griggstown Road, Belle Mead from 9 am to 1 p.m. All eleven Operation Secure Shred events in 2013 are hosted at municipal sites in cooperation with Somerset County. All events will be held on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine.

Montgomery Twp. offices are closed Friday, 11/02 due to a power outage in the municipal building and throughout Harlingen that began yesterday afternoon. Police emergency services were never interupted. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

-We are seeing power restored in some neighborhoods. PSE&G has brought back on-line over a million customers and is working 24/7.

-Sheltering for Montgomery residents who have no other warm place to go: The Otto Kaufman Community Center, 356 Skillman Rd, Skillman is open for warming and you have no other place to go as a 24 hr shelter of last resort starting today (as long as our back-up power at facility remains). It is anticipated this will continue at least through the weekend/until power is restored. Sorry, no pets can be accommodated. Bring medications, blankets, pillows, toiletries, and nonperishable food items such as canned or dry goods. There are toilet facilities and sinks for washing up but no showers. There is heat but no internet or cable. Questions, call 609-466-3023.

- The Princeton Elks Lodge, located on Route 518 near Route 601, is providing their facilities as warming center open from noon until 10pm M-F.

-ShopRiteat Rt. 518 is open to midnight since they are now on full generator power. They are in process of restocking but currently have no ice, batteries, meats or fish or frozen food. A delivery is expected. Right now milk, eggs, dry goods are available. McCaffreys in the Princeton Shopping Center is also open.

-Free water and ice available again today for those without power at Somerset County Emergency Services Training Academy, 402 Roycefield Road, Hillsborough 8am-8pm, donated by JCP&L. Supplies are limited, proof of County residency is required.

- Gasoline: The Shell Station at Rt 518 & Rt 206 in Montgomery was reported to be pumping gas as was the Shell Station at Rt 514 & Rt 206 is Hillsborough as of last evening. The Princeton Airport is open is dispensing leaded gas for generators only.

-The Somerset County Clerk's Office, 20 Grove St., Somerville is open for Vote by Mail assistance from 8:15 am-4:00 pm today. Just come in or Call 908-231-7013, but be aware that phones are intermittent, keep trying. Free parking at Bernie Field Parking Deck, East High St. All other County Offices closed Friday. Recycling curbside pick-ups are occurring today in Montgomery, Rocky Hill, Franklin Park & Griggstown.

-Department of Public Works is responding to calls but has intermittent phone service. Please leave a message at 908-874-3144.

-The Public Works Facility, at 12 Harlingen Rd, Belle Mead is now open 8am to 3pm, thru Nov. 13th especially for brush debris drop off due to the storm. Dump tickets are not needed for brush debris drop-off only. We regret that there can be no curb side pickup. Please, keep our roads clear, do not drag debris into the road shoulders.

If a resident has a landscaper dropping off brush debris, please make sure the landscaper can produce a signed letter from the resident authorizing brush debris drop-off & indicating that there is no disposal charge to resident from the landscaper.

-The Somerset County Clerk's Office, 20 Grove St., Somerville is open for Vote by Mail assistance from 8:15 am-4:00 pm today. Just come in or Call 908-231-7013, but be aware that phones are intermittent, keep trying. Free parking at Bernie Field Parking Deck, East High St. All other County Offices closed Friday. Recycling curbside pick-ups are occurring today in Montgomery, Rocky Hill, Franklin Park & Griggstown.

Montgomery Township safety officials have postponed trick-or treating today and tonight, due to unsafe and unknown conditions. We are waiting for direction from the Governor as to when trick-or-treating will be rescheduled. The Governor indicated that guidance on a new date will come later in the week. It is our intention to reschedule once power and safe conditions are restored to Montgomery.

Halloween trick or treating could be very dangerous

due to lack of light in neighborhoods and undetected loose wires or tree limbs. Safety must come first. Utilities are working around the clock but clearing of hazards will take time.

Another bulletin is being developed and will follow shortly today regarding roads closed, availability of potable water, warming centers, drop-off of brush, etc. This info will also be posted on the township website atwww.montgomery.nj.us.

We are pleased to announce that ALL Montgomery voters will be able to vote at their normal polling places on Tuesday. ALL Montgomery Polling Locations have had power restored in time. Voters in districts 5, 6, 11, & 12 should go to the Evangelical Free Church, Belle-Mead Griggstown Road to vote, as usual.

A full bulletin on many other important storm-related items will follow shortly. Please look for it. That bulletin will also be posted atwww.montgomery.nj.us where closed road info is also found.

ALL TOWNSHIP ROADWAYS WERE CLEARED of snow early this morning by Montgomery Twp. Dept. of Public Works, allowing access so PSE&G work could continue.

PSE&G STATEMENT, 11/08/12:

It is still our expectation to have virtually all of our customers back in service by Friday with small areas and individual services that may take longer. Currently, we have restored 1.7 million customers, or about 96 percent of those interrupted by Hurricane Sandy. Some statistics:

70,000 outages remain from Hurricane Sandy.

45,500 outages remain from the nor'easter Athena, which affected about 90,000 customers since Wednesday at midday.

Despite the snowstorm, the 4,000 out-of-state workers and 700 PSE&G linemen restored service to more than 120,000 customers affected by Hurricane Sandy in the past 24 hours. Many of our crews from the south have never worked in snow before, but have proven more than capable of handling this new challenge.

Crews are working 16-hour days, with mandated rest periods and meal breaks.

Since the start of the storm, PSE&G call centers have handled more than 2.1 million calls (more than 12 times the normal volume). We have suspended non-emergency work so that more workers are available to respond to customer calls

Despite temporary outages this a.m. due to Athena, PSE&G continues to make forward progress. PSE&G is now providing municipal officials with some neighborhood specific information on remaining outages. They are addressing line issues on individual customer properties. If you see that your neighborhood is back on power and you are not, please let PSE&G know this. 1-800-436-PSEG.

REMAINING MONTGOMERY ROAD CLOSURES

Township Line Rd. - between Pike Run/Goldenrod & between Livingston/Hills Dr.Bridgepoint at BridgewoodDutchtown-Zion Rd from Rt. 601 to Pin Oak - open but tree debrisPin Oak Road - open, but utility trucks still working in road this afternoonBedle/Ludlow - wires in road

Seniors or those with disabilities needing assistance with yard clean-up or transport to the brush drop-off, please contact Lauren Wasilauski in the Planning Dept. at (908) 359-8211 ext. 343 and we will do our best to match you to a volunteer group.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in the Somerset County Human Services Building at 27 Warren St., Somerville. The Disaster Recovery Center will open Thursday, Nov. 8, from 2 to 8 p.m. Hours thereafter will be Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. until further notice.

The FEMA center will assist residents impacted by Hurricane Sandy. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available to provide temporary benefits to individuals whose employment or self-employment has been lost or interrupted as a direct result of the storm. There is also Disaster Legal Aidehttp://www.disasterlegalaid.org/

SHELTERING-Otto Kaufman Community Center, 356 Skillman Rd., Skillman, remains open as a Warming Center and Overnight Shelter for tonight but will close for these purposes tomorrow, Friday at 9 p.m.If possible, please call ahead to 609-466-3023. If you anticipate having a need for shelter over the long weekend, please contact Montgomery Police at 908-359-3222 and we will assist you in making sheltering arrangements.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS Fire Officials have provided some excellentSAFETY PRECAUTIONSfrom St. Barnabas Burn Center for when handling gasoline, using generators, candles, and approaching downed power lines.

VETERANS DAY LUNCH & OBSERVANCE SUNDAY Still On! Sunday, November 11 Lunch at 12 at the Princeton Elks Lodge, Blawenburg (donations gratefully accepted) followed by a ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Montgomery Park, beginning at 2:15 p.m. with a march by high school band from Devon Dr., patriotic music and brief speeches. (2:15-2:45 Road Closure)

TO BE RESCHEDULED-The Economic Development Commission'sBusiness Networking Forumwith Tracye McDaniel, CEO & President of Choose New Jersey, originally scheduled for Tuesday evening, November 12th, is being postponed and a new reschedule date is pending. Please check back on the bulletins page of the Township website atwww.montgomery.nj.us

We are pleased to announce that we will once again work with ShopRite of Montgomery on a Turkey Donation program for Thanksgiving 2012.

If you earn a free ShopRite Turkey and would like to donate it to the Montgomery Township Food Pantry, visit the ShopRite Service Desk and they will take care of you.

Due to Hurricane Sandy and its disruption of customers' grocery shopping for several days, ShopRite has reduced the amount required to be purchased to earn a turkey. It will be $300, not $400 as printed in their bulletin.

You may sign up to donate your free ShopRite turkey during store hoursthrough Sunday November 18, 2012. Visit the ShopRite Service Desk. You will need to present your ShopRite Price Plus Card at Customer Service. The earned free turkey points will be deducted from your account and a turkey will be donated to the Montgomery Township Food Pantry Program.

Important note: Please do not drop off turkeys at the Montgomery Township Food pantry.We cannot accept perishable items. We have arranged a special program working directly with ShopRite.

We schedule appointments for donation deliveries and client visits to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of our clients.We do offer an "open donation time" on Mondays between 8:30 am and 9:30 am and Mondays between 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm and we schedule donation appointments on other days and times. On Mondays we have a shopping cart in the vestibule of the Senior Center where donors can deliver non-expired, non-perishable food or non-food grocery items and sign in on our donation log. This ensures that donors and clients arenot here at the same time.

The Montgomery community is incredibly generous and we appreciate the support. The Food Pantry and Montgomery families having difficulty making ends meet are very thankful to have such a caring community willing to help in so many ways.

You can contact the Food Pantry via emailFoodPantry@twp.montgomery.nj.us or by phone 609-466-1054. The Food Pantry is located in the Otto Kaufman Community Center at 356 Skillman Road, Skillman.

The Department of Public Works will be working throughout today and tomorrow to scrape the hard packed snow from Township roadways. The extreme and lengthy cold snap has inhibited the melting action of the salt spread on roads, as it does not melt snow effectively below 20 degrees. Latest weather forecasts are predicting up to 2" of additional snowfall over the next 24 hours. Residents are asked to be understanding while Public Works completes its work. Thank you!

Montgomery Township Mayor Rich Smith and the Township Administration would like to update our residents as to how we are addressing weather related conditions in the Township such as potholes, clogged storm drains and excess snow removal, which have all occurred due to the unprecedented amount of snow and freezing weather this winter.

The information listed below will direct residents on how to communicate concerns with our Department of Public Works and other road maintenance groups. Thank you for your cooperation and patience while we work to keep Montgomery roads safe!

Pot Holes:

Pothole repairs are ongoing but due to the weather and temperature they are being prioritized based on location and size. The most severe will be addressed first. However, Montgomery Department of Public Works is also working on clearing catch basins and removing snow banks from roadsides and widening travel lanes.

Residents may report potholes on Township Maintained Roads by calling the Montgomery Twp Pothole Hotline: 908-874-8947 and providing their name, address, telephone number and the location of the pot hole.

Residents may report potholes on Somerset County Maintained Roads by emailing Somerset County Road Dept. at RoadDiv@co.somerset.nj.us These include:

5. There are many streets within private housing developments whose maintenance is the responsibility of the property management company and not Montgomery Twp. For questions on the maintenance of these streets and parking lots, residents should contact their property manager. Click HERE for a list of streets which are private.

Fire Hydrants:

If you are able, please assist our volunteer firefighters by removing snow from around fire hydrants near your home. It could save firefighters precious time helping you or a neighbor in an emergency!

Blocked Storm Drains:

To report that a storm drain is blocked because so much snow has been plowed onto the side of the road, please provide your name, telephone number, and the address of where the storm drain is located in an email to dpw@twp.montgomery.nj.us . The Public Works Dept. will prioritize these issues.

If the storm drain is clogged with a small amount of snow, we appreciate any residents who wish to take the initiative and clear the snow away from the drain as much as possible.

Mailboxes:

If the mailbox is down because of the snow plow, residents may email their name, telephone number, address (and upload photos of the mailbox if possible) to dpw@twp.montgomery.nj.us. There is no set schedule as to when the mailbox will be repaired. Public Works is balancing their workload to accommodate priority issues. - Residents in the meantime may go to their post office and request to have their mail held for the next few weeks until their mailbox is repaired. If they do this, it will ensure that their mail is not lost, they can pick it up at their convenience and it will be safe until retrieved.

If snow is piled up around the mailbox so that the post office cannot deliver mail, residents have a couple of options: -They may have their mail held at the post office (for above reasons) until the snow has melted and mail delivery can be resumed. -They may consider clearing the snow away from the mailbox themselves.

Curbside Recycling:

Somerset County recycling pickups will be delayed this week due to the Monday holiday and the subsequent severe weather. Residents are asked to leave their recyclables at the curb after snow plowing is done. Collections will be completed as soon as possible. The Somerset County Recycling Division thanks residents for their patience and understanding.

This Sunday, May 18 Montgomery EMS will hold it's annual Open House at the squad building located at 8 Harlingen Road in Belle Mead. Among the many Open house activities planned, you can join us for free Family and Friends CPR classes, a Pancake Breakfast fundraiser and a Pet CPR and First Aid class.

Come visit MEMS' Open House Sunday!

The Family and Friends CPR class is an American Heart Association non-certification class. The class length is 45 minutes and teaches you how to perform CPR on Adults or infants and how to help an adult or infant who is choking. There are 2 Adult sessions (9:30am and Noon) and one infant session (11am) scheduled (infant is defined as a child one year old or younger). Reservations are required for each session (register at mems47.org ) and there is a maximum of 30 attendees per session.

The Pancake breakfast fundraiser will be held between 9 am and noon. Enjoy HOT & FRESH made-to-order all-you-can-eat pancakes along with a variety of snacks and beverages while enjoying some live entertainment too! The cost is Adults $8, Seniors $6 and Children $4.

The Pet CPR and First Aid class is scheduled at 1 PM and is a 2 hour class. The cost is $10/person and the class is limited to the first 12 people who register by sending an email to info@mems47.org.

Montgomery PD will also be on hand to issue Fingerprint ID cards and members of Squad 47 and Montgomery Fire Station #1 will offer Ambulance & Firetruck Tours.

On Thursday, May 22 from 1-4, Montgomery EMS will hold its second event, free car seat checks together with the Princeton Healthcare System. This event will also be held at the Montgomery EMS building. If you wish to have your car seat checked you must make an appointment ahead of time by calling 1.888.897.8979, walk-ins will only be permitted if time permits.

To register for a class or find further details on the Open house Activities and other EMS week events go to mems47.org

Mary Jacob Library Closing May 27th to June 5th

Freeze Your Holds or Change Pick-up Location

Beginning Tuesday May 27, the Mary Jacobs Library. a branch of the Somerset County Library System located at 64 Washington Street in Rocky Hill, will be closed for ten days. The Library plans on reopening on Thursday June 5.

During this time, a new HVAC unit will be installed, and, due to the location of the old and new units, the Lobby and Circulation Desk will be the main work area. To ensure the safety of library visitors and staff, the entire building needs to be closed. Staff are advising patrons to change the pick-up location for their holds to a nearby branch or to "freeze" them until June 5.

All Library programs previously scheduled for this time have been canceled or rescheduled. Please call Mary Jacobs Library, 609-924-7073 or consult the on-line events calendar for additional information.

Building improvements such as the installation of the new HVAC system are funded by the Mary Jacobs Memorial Library Foundation, Inc., a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that owns and maintains the Library building and grounds. It is the Foundation's mission to preserve, improve and furnish the Mary Jacobs Library building and grounds to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for all library users. For more information about the Foundation or to donate, visit www.MaryJacobsLibraryFoundation.org.

Information about library services and resources is available at the Somerset County Library Website at http://www.sclsnj.org or by calling 908-526-4016. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Somerset County is offering its residents another free document-shredding program this year at locations around the county. Click here for the 2014 schedule. If you would like to be notified about future shredding events, click here and follow the prompts to sign up for...

Keep the Sparks Alive!! Limited VIP Parking Available The 2014 Montgomery Fireworks will go off on Tuesday, July 1st (rain date: Thursday, July 10th) in front of Montgomery High School, 1016 Rt. 601, Skillman. As always, it will be a fantastic...

Following the successful and informative first session of the Somerset County Business Partnership "Meet the Mayors," Session II is has been scheduled for Wednesday, June 4, 2014 featuring Mayors from south central Somerset County including the communities of Millstone, Montgomery,...

On May 10th at approx. 10:30 p.m., Montgomery Township Police responded to Derby Chase for a Burglary to a residence. The homeowner stated they left at around 2:00 p.m. and when they returned home they discovered their home had been...

Please be advised that there is a new polling location for Districts 1 and 13 effective as of the Primary Election on June 3, 2014. These district voters will no longer vote at the Masonic Lodge on Kingston River Rd....

Don't miss the 48TH ANNUAL MONTGOMERY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL Sponsored by Boy Scout Troop 46 On Sunday June 1st, 2014 from 1 to 5pm At the Montgomery Lower Middle School Cafetorium Featuring Music by: The Blawenburg Band, Montgomery High School Band...

Freeholder Patricia Walsh has announced that the next "Buy One, Bring One" (BOBO) collection of food for Somerset County families and individuals in need will be held Friday, May 16. Canned or boxed food items are accepted. For ideas about...

On Friday May 9, 2014 at 1:18 a.m., police arrested Stephan K. Bubnowski, 19 years of age, of Belle Mead, NJ. Police were in the area of Lynchburg Court investigating a loud music complaint when Officer Balinski observed a gray...

Law enforcement officers from the Montgomery Twp. Police Department will be cracking down on unbuckled motorists and passengers as part of the national "Click it or Ticket" campaign. Beginning May 19 and running through June 1, the annual initiative includes...

Makes sure dogs are protected against rabies and can find their way home

Montgomery Animal Control is conducting its annual dog census, as required by New Jersey statute. Local Animal Control officials will be out in the community this summer canvassing neighborhoods for dogs that may not yet be licensed. Licensing your dog helps assure that the community is protected against rabies, and helps you be reunited with your dog should it get lost. Surveys may be curbside or door to door.

Composting your kitchen scraps and yard trimmings is easy once you learn a few simple steps. Somerset County offers 3 foot tall "Earth Machine" composters for $50 for county residents, a 50% discount over retail price. Price includes composting literature and a "how-to" class scheduled for morning or evening of September 14th (see FLYER).

Cut back on your volume of trash, recycle your yard waste, reduce your 'footprint', and make beautiful organic humus for your flower beds, landscaping islands, or vegetable garden. Your green thumb will be the talk of the neighborhood! Call 908-231-7109.

At their January 15th meeting the Montgomery Township Committee made a motion to honor the Montgomery Pop Warner Midget Cheerleaders. The16 member squad was crowned 2014 National Champions at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, Florida on December 12th.

Montgomery Mayor Christine Madrid stated, “This cheerleading team’s athletic excellence has led to national recognition. We were so glad to be able to congratulate them too. They certainly deserve their hometown’s recognition! Montgomery Twp. is proud of all of our amazing sports teams!”

The Montgomery Wildcat Midget Cheerleaders outscored more than 300 other teams from eight regions across America with their two and a half minute routine that incorporated tumbling, stunting, cheer and dance to earn the title of 2014 Pop Warner Midget Level 2 Medium National Cheer Champions.

Prior to competing in Florida, they competed in three other competitions, placing 1st in the Jersey Valley Conference Competition; 1st in the New Jersey State Competition; and 1st in the Eastern Region Cheer Competition.

The coaches and most of the girls on this 8th grade team were involved with earlier teams who won National Cheer Championships in both 2011 and 2013. The 2011 Pee Wee cheer team was the youngest Montgomery Pop Warner team ever to claim a National Title.

Mayor Christine Madrid and Deputy Mayor Ed Trzaska were invited to attend a celebration of the Wildcat’s victory at the Princeton Elks last Saturday and personally presented the team and their coaches with signed copies of the Township proclamation honoring them for their impressive achievements.

Deputy Mayor Trzaska remarked, “I would like to congratulate this team on another National Championship. The teamwork and dedication that they have shown through the years serves as a great example for all of us. I would also like to recognize the coaches and parents who spent countless hours supporting these girls. Winning a National Title three out of four years is remarkable."

The team was supported in its efforts by Coaches Christine Ark, Renee DePinto, Lauren Panasewicz; Head Cheer Commissioner Carolann Kubik; Student Demonstrators Caitlyn Ark, Abby Bickel, and Allyssa Ark along with parents and friends.

The Montgomery Township Committee shares this good news to recognize these Champions for their impeccable performances and top achievement in their

The Montgomery Township Environmental Commission/Sustainable Montgomery is pleased to announce the sixth annual Earth Day Fair at the Montgomery High School on Route 601. It will be held Sunday April 10, 2011, 12-4 pm, indoors and outdoors, rain or shine. Registration to participate is now open. This year’s theme is: Every Day is Earth Day in Montgomery Township.

“In previous years, attendance has topped one thousand and we anticipate, with our newly added attractions, that the fair will grow again this year,” said Environmental Commission Chairperson Mary Reece.

Applications are now available for local businesses, civic organizations, municipal committees, school groups, scout troops and local residents who are interested in setting up public education display tables or in speaking on topics of environmental interest, collecting items not currently collected by our county recycling program, selling food or providing activities for children. We are also looking for individuals or groups to sponsor this event. To register or to sponsor the Fair, or to further explore ways you or your group can participate, please complete the registration form on the Township web site www.montgomery.nj.us - click on Earth Day Fair link on left side menu. You can also email the Earth Day Fair Planning Subcommittee at earthdayfair@gmail.com or contact Lauren Wasilauski, Open Space Coordinator, at lwasilauski@twp.montgomery.nj.us or by phone at the Municipal Building at 908-359-8211 ext. 343.

“A new exhibit this year is an Earth Balloon,” said Fair Co-coordinator Debbie Gartenberg, who is leading fair planning with co-coordinator Malini Waghray. She explained further, “This is a two story tall ‘earth’ into which families can enter for a tour from an instructor. What a great way to experience our planet!”

To see the Earth Balloon, visit www.earthballoon.com/.

Once again there will be free computer recycling available for all residents sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies as well as a bicycle collection that will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Trenton. In addition to several speakers and environmental displays, there will be live music, a clown, children activities, food, and much more. Back again this year will be a “Freecycle” event, where you can drop off items you no longer need, and find new items to take home, all for FREE! There is no admission charge to display or to attend the event.

A yellowwood tree was planted at Harlingen Green to mark Arbor Day 2016 in Montgomery Twp. Present at the observance were (l to r): Deputy Mayor Ed Trzaska, Parks Foreman John Snyder, Shade Tree Committee chairperson Larry Koplik, President of Montgomery Friends of Open Space Sarah Roberts, and Shade Tree Committee Member Jacqueline Haren.

In celebration of Arbor Day the Montgomery Township Shade Tree Committee, supported by community volunteers, held an educational program about trees and their benefits for all third grade classes at the Village Elementary School on April 15th. In addition to this classroom lesson, the students were visited by three arborists, who explained what they do in their profession. Each student received a wrapped Swamp White Oak tree seeding to plant.

“We really depend on and appreciate the support of our volunteers. Thanks to them the kids had fun while learning why trees are so important to us and how to care for them," said Larry Koplik, chair of the Montgomery Shade Tree Committee.

This year marks the 144th time that Arbor Day has been celebrated in the United States and the 30th year of Montgomery Township’s observance.

After the children’s program a yellowwood tree was planted in the Harlingen Green as a celebration of Arbor Day. During the month of April, the Montgomery Shade Tree Committee also has an exhibit about trees at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, NJ.

Montgomery’s Deputy Mayor Ed Trzaska, who attended the celebration, stated, "Thanks to Larry Koplik and the entire Shade Tree Committee for all of their hard work. Arbor Day is not just about planting a tree, but it also reminds us that we are connected to something bigger and must do our duty to protect what we hold dear for future generations."

Montgomery was named a “2016 Tree City USA” by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management. More information on this program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

The Montgomery Twp. Shade Tree Committee advises the Township Committee in matters relating to tree policy, planting and care. The committee members participate in Planning Board & Zoning Board development application reviews. The committee works closely with the Parks Foreman and the Department of Public Works and was integral to the creation of a township arboretum next to Montgomery Veterans Park on Harlingen Road. It collaborates with the scouts, local businesses, students, the Environmental Commission and the Open Space Committee on a variety of projects. The committee meets on every third Wednesday of the month in the volunteer conference room in the municipal building at 7:30 PM. The public is always welcome at the meetings. Call (908) 359-8211 in advance to confirm. For more information on the Montgomery Township Shade Tree Committee, go to: http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/elected-officials/township-committee/shade-tree-committee/ .